COMO Magazine | The Weekender Issue | May 2024

ADJUSTING YOUR HEALTH IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.

MANAGEMENT

Erica Pefferman, President Erica@comocompanies.com

David Nivens David@comocompanies.com

EDITORIAL

Publisher | Erica Pefferman Erica@comocompanies.com

Editor | Jodie Jackson Jr Jodie@comocompanies.com

Intern | Kelsey Winkeljohn

DESIGN

Creative Director | Kate Morrow Kate@comocompanies.com

Senior Designer | Jordan Watts Jordan@comocompanies.com

Photo Editor | Madi Green Madi@comocompanies.com

MARKETING

Director of Account Management Keeley Duncan Keeley@comocompanies.com

Director of Web Services J. J. Carlson JJ@comocompanies.com

Marketing Representative Sarah Hempelmann Shempelmann@comocompanies.com

Marketing Representative Becky Roberts Becky@comocompanies.com

Sara Nivens Sara@comocompanies.com

MARKETING

Director of Sales | Charles Bruce Charles@comocompanies.com

OUR MISSION

To inspire, educate, and entertain the citizens of Columbia with quality, relevant content that reflects Columbia’s business environment, lifestyle, and community spirit.

CONTACT

The COMO Companies 404 Portland, Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 499-1830 | comomag.com @wearecomomag

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Barbara Buffaloe, Beth Bramstedt, Lauren Sable Freiman, Lori Galaske, Lydia Graves Hoss Koetting, Amanda Long, Erica Pefferman, Michelle Terhune, Jennifer Truesdale, Emmi Weiner, Kelsey Winkeljohn

Weekends are for resting.

Is it just me or does it feel like we are all moving faster than usual and trying to accomplish more than ever? I nd myself feeling exhausted in a way that isn’t solved by a good nap. In fact, sometimes naps make things worse, because I feel guilty for not being productive. As I talk to my sisters and friends, I nd that it’s not unusual for a lot of us to feel that way. Rather than try to keep up and do more, I decided to do something di erent this weekend. I retreated to a wonderful farm in the woods, drank co ee overlooking an amazing eld surrounded by woods, and did absolutely nothing. Except pick up a book.

I decided to read e Happiness Project again. I had read it a long time ago and remember it being an enjoyable book. However, I felt this was a good time to revisit it as I am at a whole new point in my life, and I was excited to see what would be revealed to me this time around. Truthfully, it was just one of those moments when a book calls to you and tells you it’s time.

In short, e Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin is like joining a friend for a year-long co ee chat about nding joy in everyday chaos. ink of it as a DIY happiness makeover, with Rubin as your upbeat coach. Each month, she tackles a di erent area of life, from decluttering her closet to nurturing friendships and nding her groove at work. From her battles with procrastination to her “aha” moments, she lays it all out there sharing her wins and struggles.

I am seeing this book in whole new ways. As I read it, I am taking brief notes on my phone of ideas that are coming to me during each chapter on how to not just agree with the book but to put the principles into action. One of the rst things I made a note of was to get more sleep. Ironic as I am currently writing this at 10:25 p.m. which is way past my bedtime.

roughout the book, Rubin serves up practical tips and tricks for boosting

Truthfully, it was just one of those moments when a book calls to you and tells you it’s time.

happiness without breaking a sweat. Whether it’s starting a gratitude journal, scheduling regular date nights, or embracing your inner child with a new hobby. What Rubin suggests isn’t complicated or new, but it is shared in such a relatable way that it feels attainable.

At its core, e Happiness Project is all about nding joy in the little things and embracing the messy, beautiful journey of life. It’s about ipping the script on happiness, realizing that it is not about chasing some elusive dream but savoring the here and now. I am so guilty of thinking “I’ll rest when...” or “I’ll be happier when...” I want to be my best now. Not later. And I am nding the answers of how to forge a path to that in this book.

So, grab a cozy blanket and settle in for a feel-good read that will leave you inspired to shake things up and live your happiest life — because as Rubin reminds us, happiness is a choice, and it is never too late to start making yours. I will be making mine.

ERICA PEFFERMAN PUBLISHER erica@comocompanies.com

ON THE COVER

The Elms. Explore three weekend-worthy hotels in Missouri in our Hit the Road feature on page 53.

We take pride in representing our community well and we couldn’t do what we do without our COMO Magazine advisory board. Thank You!

Beth Bramstedt

Church Life Pastor Christian Fellowship Church

Heather Brown

Strategic Partnership Officer Harry S Truman VA Hospital

Nickie Davis

Executive Director The District, Downtown CID

Sam Fleury

Assistant Vice President

Strategic Communications, Columbia College

Jeremiah Hunter

Assistant Police Chief

Commander Investigations Bureau Columbia Police Department

Chris Horn

Sr. Reinsurance Manager American Family Insurance

Kris Husted

Senior Content Editor NPR Midwest Newsroom

Amanda Jacobs Owner Jacobs Property Management

Megan Steen

Chief Operating Officer, Central Region Burrell Behavioral Health

Nathan Todd

Business Services Specialist First State Community Bank

Wende Wagner

Director of Resource Development

The Boys and Girls Club of the Columbia Area

Have a story idea, feedback, or a general inquiry? Email Jodie@comocompanies.com.

22 SOUND ARCHITECTS

From vinyl to voice control, these home automation pros are way more than just the 'speaker guys.'

47 GET OUT OF TOWN

Columbia’s central location makes getting away for a weekend in Missouri’s north, south, east,

53 HIT THE ROAD

Refuel and refresh with a weekend getaway at one of three esteemed hotels in Missouri.

POURING EXCELLENCE

Discovering Missouri’s Distillery Trail.

BY LYDIA GRAVES

Embark on a spirited escapade along the far-reaching paths of the Missouri Distillery Trail. Meander through the picturesque landscapes of Missouri, where each distillery boasts its unique blend of tradition and innovation. From tucked-away artisanal operations to bold, boundary-pushing craft distilleries, every stop promises a taste of the state’s vibrant distilling culture.

From rustic, family-run operations to sleek, modern distilleries pushing the boundaries of avor, each stop o ers a fresh perspective on the art and science of crafting ne spirits. Every sip tells a story, and every pour is an invitation to explore. Raise a glass. Cheers to the discoveries that await!

BLACKSMITH DISTILLERY

LOHMAN, MISSOURI

Forged Tradition, Crafted Today

Five years ago, Blacksmith Distillery emerged as a weekend endeavor, rooted in family tradition and a passion for quality spirits. Today, this nano-distillery is a regional favorite, distributing to fty-plus locations across Missouri through its self-distribution model. O ering custom labeling for events and weddings, alongside handcrafted spirits, Blacksmith’s signature Snow Day wheat bourbon, aged two to three years and nished with Brazilian amburana oak and yellow birch staves, is celebrated for its smooth complexity and rich avor.

Founder favorites like Stagg Jr and William Larue Weller underscore the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and transparency, ensuring each sip tells a story of dedication and skill.

OLD OZARKIAN DISTILLERY

UNION, MISSOURI

Heritage in Every Sip

Established in 2017, Old Ozarkian Distillery is a family-operated venture steeped in centuries of distilling tradition. Managed by Jonathan Downard, whose lineage traces back to a 1790s Pennsylvania distillery, the ethos of “ eld to glass” is paramount, with spirits crafted from non-GMO heirloom corns. e Spiritorium, reminiscent of an old-time industrial distillery crossed with a general store, o ers a relaxed setting for tastings and retail sales, where guests can immerse themselves in stories of distillation history and family heritage.

Open Saturdays and o ering private tastings by appointment, Old Ozarkian invites enthusiasts to savor the avors of its celebrated single barrel whiskey, bourbon, and liqueurs, ensuring each visit is a journey through time and taste.

HERMANN FARM DISTILLERY

HERMANN, MISSOURI

Crafting Heritage Spirits

Since 2018, Hermann Farm Distillery has honored Missouri’s heritage on the historic Hermann Farm, owned by the Dierberg Educational Foundation. Producing three distinct product lines — Hermann Farm Distillery, Black Shire Distillery, and Polly’s Still — the distillery o ers a full range of spirits, with whiskies and avored whiskies as customer favorites. Owned by Jim and Mary Dierberg, who also oversee businesses in Hermann and California, Hermann Farm Distillery reects their commitment to excellence and historical preservation.

Guests are invited to experience the charm of their historic properties while enjoying modern craftsmanship. Personal favorites include the Rasche Rye and Spring Gin, showcasing the region’s avors and traditions. Hermann Farm Distillery aims to leave guests impressed with its spirits and with a deeper appreciation for Hermann’s heritage.

MEAN MULE DISTILLING CO.

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

Tradition with Modern Flair

Mean Mule Distilling Co., located in Kansas City, Missouri, is a family-owned venture specializing in agave spirits. Founded by Je and Meg Evans, along with Meg’s brother, Tyler Gloe, the distillery draws from a rich heritage spanning more than 200 years in distillation. Inspired by Meg’s family legacy and their upbringing in Missouri’s wine country, they craft unique spirits from organic blue weber agave sourced from Jalisco, Mexico. O erings include Silver, Gold, and Heritage American Agave Spirits, as well as a rare agave-based gin.

Mean Mule prioritizes providing a distinct tasting experience and innovative cocktails, blending tradition with modern air. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings during open hours to explore the depth and variety of the spirits rsthand.

SIX-MILE ORDINARY DISTILLERY

COLUMBIA, MISSOURI

Crafting History, Pouring Tradition

At Six-Mile Ordinary Distillery in Columbia, Missouri, owners Maury and Melissa Allen honor their family’s legacy with a nod to early American ordinaries, providing a refuge for community and discourse. O ering a diverse array of spirits under various labels like Tavern Keep and Deep Six Vodka, the distillery showcases its commitment to quality and innovation. e in-house bourbon, Buzzard Run, is meticulously crafted and aged to perfection, while upcoming releases include a range of barrel- nished expressions. Visitors to the upscale and intimate tasting room can enjoy a full cocktail menu and spirit ights, with the Old Fashioned and margarita standing out as crowd favorites. Experience the spirit of tradition and excellence at Six-Mile Ordinary Distillery.

EDELBRAND PURE DISTILLING

DEFIANCE, MISSOURI

Legacy in Missouri’s Smallest Distillery

Marking its tenth anniversary, Edelbrand Pure Distilling, the smallest distillery in Missouri, was founded in 2014 by Martin Weber, Lynn DeLean-Weber, and Tess D. Waldron, dedicated to reviving Swiss distilling traditions on their Missouri farm. With three copper pot stills, they meticulously handcraft unaged brandies and bierbrands renowned for their nuanced avors from whole fruit mashes.

eir vinars da péra, a Double Gold winner, is a standout. Collaborating with Urban Chestnut Brewing Company, bierbrands without bitterness are o ered. Versatile and smooth, their spirits invite exploration, from neat sipping to cocktail crafting. As warmer months approach, trying their pear brandy over chilled Prosecco for a refreshing pre-dinner treat embodies the spirit of celebration at Edelbrand Pure Distilling.

While exploring Missouri craft distilleries, one will discover the legacy of this nano distillery — proud of its reputation and extending an invitation to experience its spirits rsthand.

BONE HILL VIEW DISTILLERY LLC

BUCKNER, MISSOURI

Unique Spirits with Local Flavor

With a friendship spanning three decades, the owners of Bone Hill View Distillery are inspired by their shared passion for spirits and local lore as they set out to create something distinctive. Using sweet sorghum syrup instead of molasses, the liquors o er a unique twist on traditional rum. From classic original recipes to bold avors like oak nished, spiced, maple, hazelnut coffee, and PB&J, Bone Hill View Distillery boasts a diverse array of o erings.

Seasonal delights like strawberry and blackberry liquors add freshness, while ready-to-drink cocktails such as the popular Bloody Bill — a bloody Mary — and Apple-Pie — ideal for fall — provide convenience without sacri cing quality. e owners hope to engage customers in their story, from the choice of sweet sorghum to the inspiration drawn from a local landmark.

Personal favorites include the Bloody Bill and cherry limeade, re ecting commitment to crafting innovative and delicious libations that capture the spirit of their community.

1220 Spirits St. Louis, Missouri 1220spirits.com

Copper Mule Distillery Hermann, Missouri coppermule.com

Distillery of Defiance Defiance, Missouri judgmenttree.com

Fernwah Distilling Co. Hermann, Missouri fernwehdistilling.com

Holladay Distillery Weston, Missouri holladaydistillery.com

J. Rieger & Co. Kansas City, Missouri jriegerco.com

Lifted Spirits Kansas City, Missouri liftedspiritskc.com

McCormick Distilling Co. Weston, Missouri mccormickdistilling.com

Missouri Ridge Distillery Branson, Missouri missouriridgedistillery.com

Naked Spirits Brentwood, Missouri nakedspirits.com

Nobletons Distilling House Beaufort, Missouri nobletons.com

Ozark Distillery Osage Beach, Missouri ozarkdistillery.com

Pinckney Bend Distillery New Haven, Missouri pinckneybend.com

Restless Spirits Distillery Kansas City, Missouri restlessspiritsdistilling.com

Rocheport Distilling Co. Rocheport, Missouri facebook.com/RocheportDistilling

Rockin’ A Distillery Creighton, Missouri rockinadistillery.com

Samuel Berton Distillery Labadie, Missouri sbdistilling.net

Skull Splitter Spirits Higbee, Missouri skullsplitterspirits.com

Smith Creek Distillery Branson, Missouri smithcreekmoonshine.com

Soulard IslandDistillery St. Louis, Missouri soulardisland.com

Square One Brewery St. Louis, Missouri squareonebrewery.com

StilL 630 Distillery St. Louis, Missouri still630.com

Switchgrass Spirits St. Louis, Missouri switchgrassspirits.com

T’s Redneck Distillery Lebanon, Missouri rednecksteakhouse.com

Tom’s Town Distillery Kansas City, Missouri toms-town.com

White Mule Distillery Purdy, Missouri ozarkwhisky.com

Wood Hat Distillery New Florence, Missouri woodhatspirits.com

TALL PINES DISTILLERY

NOEL,

MISSOURI

Craft Memories

Inspired by a Pennsylvania distillery, Tara and Joe Cook founded Tall Pines Distillery on their Missouri farm, debuting in January 2020. Despite global challenges, they now o er more than eighteen unique avors and immersive tours. Favorites like huckleberry lemonade and blackberry peach margarita grace the cocktail menu, with upcoming events through a partnership with Ticketmaster adding allure.

Exceptional customer service and personalized experiences ensure returning guests, while employee favorites like spicy margaritas add to the appeal. As a family-owned operation, Tall Pines Distillery takes pride in crafting spirits from grain to glass, sourcing high-quality ingredients, and using natural springs and limestone. It was the rst legal distillery in McDonald County, Missouri, since prohibition, embodying dedication to tradition and innovation. At Tall Pines Distillery, every sip is an opportunity to create lasting memories.

RESTLESS SPIRITS DISTILLING COMPANY

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

Irish Spirit, American Soul

Founded in 2014 by Benay and Mike Shannon, Restless Spirits Distilling Company is a family-owned Irish-style craft distillery in North Kansas City. Featuring the iconic 500-gallon copper pot still, “Darby O’Still,” the distillery opened its tasting room in 2015, showcasing its dedication to quality production. Producing a diverse range of spirits, including Builders Gin and Stone Breaker Whiskey, Restless Spirits has garnered acclaim, earning Missouri Distillery of the Year accolades since its inception.

Visitors enjoy tours on Saturdays, witnessing production rsthand and connecting with the Irish-inspired ambiance. With a commitment to excellence in both spirits and service, Restless Spirits Distilling Company invites everyone to discover their Irish soul in an American spirit and carry their stories wherever they go. Whether it’s a Gullytown Old Fashioned or a Builders Margarita, there’s a spirit to suit every mood and occasion at Restless Spirits.

OF THE EARTH DISTILLERY

RICHMOND, MISSOURI

Authentic Farm-to-Glass Spirits Nestled on a picturesque farm since 2011, Of e Earth Farm Distillery epitomizes craftsmanship and authenticity. Specializing initially in apple brandy, it takes a hands-on approach, meticulously mashing, fermenting, and distilling whole fruits to capture the essence of their land. Using a traditional pot still and aging their spirits in Missouri white oak barrels for a minimum of two years, each batch re ects the rich avors of their terroir. Expanded o erings include grappa, gins, liqueurs, and specialty creations, all showcased in an intimate tasting room by appointment.

Patrons enjoy a sensory journey through fteen distinct spirits, with the signature apple brandy savored neatly and the barrel-rested grappa o ering a smooth and nuanced alternative. In every sip, Of e Earth Distillery invites enthusiasts to discover the true essence of the farm and partake in a tradition deeply rooted in artisanal distilling.

Questions and Arrows

BY BETH BRAMSTEDT

What is prayer and how do we pray? Such a good question.

Like any relationship we have, we need communication to build intimacy and trust. Being in a relationship involves speaking and listening to one another. e same is true in our relationship with God.

To be straightforward, prayer is the language we have for speaking to God. Or you could say, it is the street language we use with Jesus. It is not any more complicated than that.

HOW DO WE PRAY?

Well, we could make that complicated as well. Or not.

Simply put, we can pray by asking God questions and looking for arrows, not answers.

Before we dive into that, however, there is something foundational that is helpful to understand; God is already working on our behalf before we communicate with him.

Rather than actively communicating what we want, need, or expect, or waiting passively to see what God will do, we can participate with God in what he is already doing. Pastor and author Eugene Peterson, says it this way:

“ e assumption of spirituality is that God is always doing something before I know it. So, the task is not to get God to do something I think needs to be done, but to become aware of what God is doing so that I can respond to it and participate and take delight in it.”

e question now is how. How can we participate with God through prayer? We can ask God questions, and look for arrows, not answers.

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE TO ASK GOD QUESTIONS?

For me, it is about identifying the places in my life that no amount of thinking or talking about has been able to touch with an answer. I write these questions down in my journal each month and sit with God with them over time. Sometimes I sit quietly at home. Sometimes I sit as I drive. Sometimes I sit while I’m at work, cooking, or doing laundry.

I talk to God about how it feels not to have the answer, but I have learned to resist the urge to solve anything. I don’t strive or grasp, force clarity, or try to gure things out. I have found it helpful to allow related issues and concerns to surface, but not to dwell on them. e three areas that seem to surface the most are matters of faith, vocation, and relationships. What is the source of this weight I’m feeling? How can I cultivate this relationship? How do I live this hard thing well? What does my future look like? Or What am I afraid of?

Once I have identi ed the questions, I go on with life, living the questions. As I am living, I look for arrows rather than expecting answers.

WHAT IS AN ARROW?

God often gives a faint vision of things before they ever come to be. It is not a fully formed answer; more of a shadow, not focused or clear. It does not come with steps, money, or sure things, but with hope. And hope is what keeps us going during the fog. Instead of those black and white answers we tend to love so much, we can begin to look for arrows instead.

In that same journal, I have space to record arrows. ese arrows help me see the ways God is working and the direction he is leading. Some questions may have one arrow, others may have several. ese arrows can come as a text from a friend, a song on the radio, a whisper from the Holy Spirit, a quote, or an invitation.

What would happen if we began to see prayer as asking God questions, and then looking for arrows, not answers?

In my experience, we would begin to see God actively working in our lives and sense his invitation to join him. Rather than having an answer to our prayers, we would experience his powerful presence.

Prayer:

Father, I admit I want answers and there is nothing wrong with that.

But I can trip myself up when I hold clenched fists around my own agendas.

I am looking for a plan, but you offer me your hand.

May it be enough today.

Grow me in hope where confusion used to live.

Grow me in courage where once there was fear.

While I have an awareness of our future, keep me here in this moment for the people I love.

Give me eyes to see the arrows.

Help me trust my own heart as I put my trust in you.

Beth Bramstedt is the Church Life Pastor at Christian Fellowship.

Who’s responsible for those 401(k) fiduciary duties?

BY ERIC MORRISON

Jerry Seinfeld memorably turned the idea of being responsible on its head during the “ e Blood” episode of his ‘90s TV show. Small business owners take on responsibility like they breathe. Sales, inventory, bene ts, collections, IT, HR, payables, banking etc. e challenge and unlimited potential of being in charge is what drives the entrepreneur. While they may not know all the risks, small business owners inherently believe they can “ gure it out.” e business owner is con dent and answers, “Who’s responsible?” with a sharp, “I am!”

Enter the company 401(k) retirement plan. With the simple phrase, “We o er a company 401(k) plan,” business owners take on a multi-layered level of responsibility with expectations more rigorous than many realize. ere are legal requirements and standards of care which can create a dizzying array of jargon: Summary Plan Description; Employer Match; SECURE Act 2.0; QDIA; duciary liability; prudent expert; 404(a)(5). Huh? We just want to provide a vehicle for our people to save for retirement. Why does it have to be complicated?

When there is responsibility for other people’s money, things almost always get complicated. is has been the case since

1830 when the “Prudent Investor Rule” was established by the Massachusetts Supreme Court in Havard College & Massachusetts General Hospital v. Armory (1830). In a time well before bitcoin, Ethereum, and derivatives, the court ruled that “a trustee is to observe how men of prudence, discretion and intelligence manage their own a airs, not in regard to speculation, but in regard to the permanent disposition of their funds, considering the probable income as well as the probable safety of the capital to be invested.”

e duciary duties of a retirement plan sponsor, as required by law, have their foundation in this directive. It’s a standard which can easily go unchecked.

If a business has a new plan or a well-established plan, the plan sponsor shoulders the same burden. e Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) — e Ten Commandments for employer sponsored retirement plans — generally de nes a plan duciary as anyone who exercises discretion, control, or authority over plan investments. at is a broad de nition which could include nearly all the decisions a plan sponsor would make in the execution of a 401(k) plan.

Reviewing investments consistently not only for performance but for cost, share class, and suitability are all duciary responsibilities under ERISA. Monitoring fees charged to the plan and its participants on an ongoing basis is a duciary responsibility which requires detailed knowledge and expertise.

While the list may be intimidating on its face, the challenges of duciary responsibility parallel the challenges a business navigates related to tax return preparation or legal matters. To decipher the IRS Tax Code, businesses rely on CPA expertise. For matters of the law, liability and risk, many business owners retain business legal counsel to provide guidance.

Industry best practices also o er plan sponsors a good place to start when documenting their current plan status. While certainly not an exhaustive list, a few key components of a well-de ned plan duciary’s le would start with:

• Service agreement with current recordkeeper or plan provider

• Annual fee disclosure document with current recordkeeper or plan provider — ERISA 408(b)2

• Annual participant level fee and performance disclosure — ERISA 404(a)5

• Plan’s current investment options with ticker symbols (or CUSIPS) and the balance of each option

• Service agreement and investment management agreement

• Annual advisor fee disclosure — ERISA 408(b)2

For small business owners who o er a 401(k) plan, the time is now to act. Whether it is on o ense or defense, proactive or reactive, taking charge of duciary responsibility is a must for any plan sponsor. On their last day of work, an individual’s employer sponsored retirement plan account should be a signi cant, if not the most signi cant, asset to be used for life after employment. At the root of that accomplishment will be the responsibility their employer took by actively seeking expertise and guidance to implement a great retirement savings plan.

Taking responsibility isn’t so bad.

As president of Sundvold Financial, Eric Morrison is engaged in implementing the rm’s growth initiatives and leading its business development strategies.

Ready to get away? Try a COMO staycation.

BY BARBARA BUFFALOE

In my role as mayor, one of my favorite tasks to do is provide the welcome at visiting conferences and large meetings being hosted in Columbia. Often when this happens in other cities, the mayor providing welcome will jokingly encourage the attendees to go out and spend money to boost the local sales tax. While this is true and I want visitors to do that, I normally tell attendees to “get lost” in our city. I expand upon that by talking about the numerous sites to see in Columbia that visitors don’t often get to see when they just come in for a conference. I love Columbia and showing it o to people is the best.

As we enter the season of warmer weather and longer days, it’s natural for many of us to feel the urge to embark on adventures and explore new horizons. However, you don’t always have to venture far to nd excitement and relaxation. In fact, right here in Columbia, we are blessed with an abundance of hidden treasures and opportunities for a ful lling staycation.

In a time when the world is constantly on the move, taking a step back to appreciate the beauty and charm of our own city can be incredibly rewarding. So, why not plan a staycation right here in Columbia? Allow me to share some ideas to help you make the most of your time o without straying too far from home.

Firstly, let’s talk about exploring our natural wonders. Columbia is surrounded by breathtaking parks and trails that o er a serene escape from the hustle and

bustle of daily life. Whether it’s hiking at Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, picnicking at Stephens Lake Park, or cycling along the Katy Trail, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures waiting to be discovered and local vendors to help you plan your activity.

For those seeking a more cultural experience, look no further than our vibrant arts scene. Spend an afternoon browsing the galleries downtown or catching a performance at the historic Missouri eatre. You won’t go hungry with the diverse culinary scene that Columbia has to o er. From funky bakeries and cash-only burger joints to upscale dining establishments, there’s something to satisfy every palate right here in our city.

Of course, no staycation would be complete without a bit of relaxation and pampering. Treat yourself to a spa day at one of Columbia’s many wellness centers or unwind with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque University of Missouri campus. And for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their staycation, consider booking a stay at one of Columbia’s boutique hotels.

But perhaps the true beauty of a staycation lies in the opportunity to rediscover the simple pleasures of home. Take this

time to indulge in your favorite hobbies, whether it’s gardening, cooking, or simply curling up with a good book. Invite friends and family over for a backyard barbecue or host a movie night complete with popcorn and homemade treats.

Ultimately, the key to a successful staycation is embracing the spirit of exploration and adventure right in your own backyard. So, whether you’re a lifelong resident or a newcomer to our city, I encourage you to take some time to discover all that Columbia has to o er.

As mayor, I am constantly amazed by the warmth and creativity of our community, and I am proud to call Columbia my home. So, as you plan your next getaway, I invite you to consider staying right here in Columbia and experiencing the magic of our city for yourself.

ank you for being a part of our vibrant community, and here’s to many more unforgettable staycations in Columbia!

Bu aloe currently is serving her rst term in o ce as the mayor of Columbia.

Barbara

Sound

From vinyl to voice control, these home automation pros are way more than just the ‘speaker guys.’

BY JENNIFER TRUESDALE

To say it all started with a love of music is an understatement, but that’s also an apt segue to span the past with the present at Pure Audio.

“I’ve always liked music. at’s the big driver,” says Pure Audio owner Judd Lafrenz. e music bu purchased Pure Audio in 2013; the business opened in 2006. If you knew anything about Pure Audio before 2013, you likely knew the business for its cool speakers and components. But Lafrenz wants you to know that PA is way more than just speakers

now; today, he focuses primarily on home audio installation that is built-in and automated. And not just installing speakers, but also installing no-wiresshowing TVs, and much more.

GETTING STARTED

“I always liked audio and speakers, so I started doing my own systems [and was] continually reading and learning,” Lafrenz explains. “And then buying nicer equipment. Pure Audio was a store here in town — they started more of what

Architects

we call a ‘hi- ’ shop. ey were selling higher-end speakers and components, so I decided to go talk to those guys. e former owners and I would always end up talking about speakers, components, cables, and music. I ended up making a couple of transactions with them so that kind of started our relationship.”

Later, Lafrenz would work at Pure Audio part-time, and after he left for another opportunity, he stayed in contact with the owners, who eventually asked him to come back.

“So we basically talked about [me] buying into the business and being a partner,” Lafrenz remembers. “All of that was happening [when] one of the original owners passed away, and so that kind of kind of changed things; we were transitioning on how to grow the business and what our plans for the future were. [After that owner passed], they just decided that they wanted to actually sell the whole business. So, I bought it.”

Today, Pure Audio creates its audio/ visual magic with a team of three: Judd,

Adam Bequette (another technician), and Amanda Hu , the o ce manager.

HI-FI TO HIGH TECH

Lafrenz laughs at the suggestion that what Pure Audio does today seems very Jetson — or even Ray Bradbury-esque, depending on how you view technological developments’ inundation on society and our personal lives. Smart homes are the wave of the future.

at’s not hard to believe when you consider everyone has a smartphone

these days; you also know someone who has a video doorbell, a smart TV, and/ or something like an Alexa device in their homes. November 2023 data from Statista shows that market penetration of smart devices in U.S. homes is 52.4 percent and is expected to rise to 75.1 percent by 2028. Getting into that rapidly growing market was a smart business decision.

“Most of what we do now is wiring houses, with integrated sound all the way up to smart homes and custom theaters–we do ground up,” Lafrenz adds. “Let’s say you’re building a custom house. We’re going to work with your contractor and pull the wires during the build process for your TVs, internet, and speaker wires.”

Lafrenz continues to explain the process: “We’re going to pull all of what you need in the house based upon your system

design. We’ll install it all — TVs, components, and speakers — and then we’ll program the remote, and hand it to you for an overview and training on the system.”

He says Pure Audio wires anywhere from ten to twenty custom homes each year, but it also takes on a lot of smaller projects, including those for existing homes. (It seems that everyone these days wants their TV mounted so the wires don’t show and/or they want ushmount, in-ceiling speakers.)

“We’ll go in and we’ll pull some basic wiring and maybe mount a TV and do a sound bar — something a lot simpler,” Lafrenz says.

He notes that the current demand is for whole-home audio.

“A lot of people like whole-house audio. at’s where you have speakers in the kitchen, the master bedroom, the outside — that could be on a deck or

around a pool,” Lafrenz says. “Mounting TVs is super common because that’s just kind of standard anymore for most houses; we take care of a lot of that so that the cords don’t show.”

It’s impressive that Pure Audio can accomplish this with just three employees, including Lafrenz. And perhaps that’s part of what sets the business apart from its competitors — the business owner is involved in every design, build, and project.

“I’m personally involved in each system that we do,” he explains. “We’re a small crew. So, you’re usually talking to the owner [when you work with us]. I’m a member of the community and doing [business], so I run into homeowners at the grocery store and other local establishments. I try to make a connection by nding something that I have in common with each person.”

“Most of what we do now is wiring houses, with integrated sound all the way up to smart homes and custom theaters — we do ground up.”

Judd says a big part of his job is decoding what people think they want — ”bluetooth,” for example, has become so ubiquitous that people often use it to describe a variety of needs; understanding that they are asking for the ability to control music from their phone throughout the house is an important skill, as Lafrenz wants your home system to be as simple and streamlined as possible. He gives a lot of credit to Bequette and Hu for Pure Audio’s success; Bequette can do full installations himself, and Hu does everything from answering the phone to processing invoices and helping with designs and even wiring.

THE FUTURE OF HOME AUTOMATION

With technology evolving as rapidly as it does, Lafrenz and his team do their homework to stay ahead of market

trends. He expects to see more demand for voice-operated devices, and the ability to have lots of things, like lights, window shades, thermostats, and security systems, to always be “running in the background” on a schedule.

“We can, for instance, [use] a universal remote, and with the same button press that turns on the TV, we can add automation [that] also makes the lights dim and close the blinds all in one function versus let me nd this remote and close that, let me turn this to that input, let me set this,” he adds.

Lafrenz, 41, is something of a “professional appreciator of music,” like the character Rob Gordon of High Fidelity fame, except he sells whole-home systems instead of vinyl; and just like Rob, he doesn’t play a musical instrument, which he laughs about when asked.

“I always joke with people that I can’t play an instrument, or I can’t make music,” he jokes, “but I can listen to it really well.“

To be sure, Rob Gordon is a deeply awed character, so the comparison to Lafrenz ends at the music, but since Lafrenz is such a ‘90s-guy musically, here’s one more nod to Nick Hornby with Lafrenz’s “Top Five Best Albums to Listen to at Home Alone on Full Blast”:

• Dave Matthews Band, Under the Table and Dreaming

• Hootie and the Blow sh, Cracked Rear View

• Weezer, e Blue Album

• Blue October, e Answers

• Jack Johnson is a tie between Brush re Fairytales or In between Dreams

“My tastes have changed over the years,” he concedes. “But I guess, my true [go-to music is] singer-songwriter stu or ’90s alternative.”

PURE AUDIO

3211 S Providence Rd., Suite 107 (573) 234-1074

pureaudiohome.com

WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

JACOB PORTER ROST LANDSCAPING

MICHELLE BATYE FLOORING AMERICA

ELIAS ABADI C OMO PREMIUM EXTERIORS

JACLYN ROGERS AI PAINTING PLUS

MAKE YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR A PAINTING PRIORITY, TOO

By Jaclyn Rogers

Find more at aipaintingplus.com

Homeowners rightly spend a lot of valuable time making sure their home’s interior is attractive, livable, and fresh. And nothing accomplishes those objectives more than the color of the walls and furnishings. It’s also just as valuable –and maybe even more so – to make exterior painting a priority, too.

Some of the advantages of top-quality, long-lasting exterior painting are easy to see. Literally. Improving your home’s curb appeal is an ideal way to match the interior color choices and even personal style that you live with every day. Curb appeal is also essential when it comes to your home’s value, whether for the aesthetic appeal or making sure it is in prime condition for the real estate market.

Here are five of the main reasons to put exterior painting on a to-do-soon list.

1. As your home and household “grows,” so does the landscape. Your home has unique strengths and focus points that look best with specific colors. Ai Painting Plus offers color consultations to help homeowners make sure they are maximizing those focus points. (Remember that neutral colors, such as grays, whites, tans, or browns are typically safe choices, as long as the exterior still looks fresh.) Also, don’t be afraid of using bold accents on the front door or trim to add a distinct look.

2. You’re adding a layer of protection

A fresh paint job does more than look good. Quality exterior paint and the

right painting services work as an added layer of protection from the elements, helping to keep your home safe from weather damage, insects, and dust. The paint can even prevent exterior wood from rotting.

3. You have some exterior damage that is not easily seen. In addition to preventing problems, a quality coat of paint will help you identify larger issues to your home’s exterior that you might not have already noticed. Once these bruises are identified, they are not difficult to repair. Working to repaint your home can reveal an array of small flaws ranging from mold, mildew, and water stains to rotting wood caused by weakened paint.

4. Enhance neighborhood aesthetics. A well-maintained and freshly painted home can have a positive impact on the overall aesthetics of your neighborhood. When one homeowner invests in improving their property’s appearance, it often inspires others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that elevates the look and feel of the entire area. As a result, this can lead to increased property values and a stronger sense of community pride.

WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

Jaclyn Rogers, sales representative at Ai Painting Plus, sees paint as more valuable than simply being an accent in a home. “We are painting joy into people’s homes,” she says. Jaclyn is certified as a Psychological Color Expert, which means she has demonstrated mastery in specifying interior paint in residential applications.

5. Increase energy efficiency. A fresh coat of paint can contribute to your home’s energy efficiency, especially when you choose light or reflective colors. Light-colored exterior paint reflects more sunlight, which can help keep your home cooler during the hot summer months. This, in turn, reduces the strain on your air conditioning system, resulting in lower energy consumption and utility bills.

To summarize, the primary reasons to paint your home’s exterior are to boost curb appeal; protect your home from the elements; prevent problems like mold and mildew growth; improve the structural integrity by finding issues that might already exist; increase the property value; and extend the lifespan of your siding. (It’s also about matching your personal flair.)

At this point, you might have additional questions, like “How often should I paint my home?” or “When is the best time to paint my home?” Painting your home exterior is a big project. It is essential that you carefully evaluate and make sure that now is the right time for you to paint your home. Ai Painting Plus has you covered. Call us today for a consultation to start the process of making sure your home’s exterior is as fantastic as its interior.

PLANNING, BUDGETING, AND INSURANCE CLAIMS FOR YOUR MISSOURI ROOF REPAIR

By Elias Abadi Find more at comoexteriors.com

Getting your roof replaced or just repaired is no small undertaking. From planning, budgeting, and even possibly dealing with an insurance claim it can all seem overwhelming. Our staff at CoMo Premium Exteriors will help guide you through the process and alleviate as much of the stress as possible.

First steps in planning, budgeting, and insurance claims

The first step in any roofing project is an inspection to determine if your roofing situation requires submitting a claim to insurance for damage or if the damage will be an out-of-pocket expense. An expert inspection can also help determine the extent of the damage and the likelihood of insurance approving storm related damage to the roof. A homeowner is always welcome to file a claim, but we can save you time by checking out your roof and letting you know if it is likely that most insurance carriers would cover the damage based on our many years of experience.

Many of the largest insurance agents in the area contact CoMo Premium Exteriors on behalf of policyholders and have us do an inspection prior to contacting the adjuster. Based on these relationships and our experience, we determine the best course of action for your roof damage and provide recommendations on how to best proceed. Most homeowners even have us meet with their adjuster after our initial inspection, should we find enough damage to warrant a claim.

WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW ELIAS ABADI OWNER

CoMo Premium Exteriors is mid-Missouri’s largest roofing and exterior remodeling company. We believe in providing homeowners and business owners with free, honest inspections and advice to help them make informed decisions. We never use high pressure tactics because our goal is to build long-term relationships built on quality workmanship, great communications, and good cleanup when we’re done. If you need a new roof, gutters, siding, windows, or a deck; we’ve got you covered!

Budgeting and financing options

Once you have had your roof inspected and determined if this is an insurance claim or an out-of-pocket expense you can start budgeting and setting the details of your roof repair or replacement. In hail damage cases, an insurance company will typically cover the full roof repair if the inspection shows damage to most roof slopes. When you know what insurance will cover you can start making decisions on what materials you want. For repairs, we will match your existing shingles as closely as possible, but for full replacements there are dozens of color options and profiles at many price points. Even if insurance is paying to replace your roof, you have the option to upgrade your shingles and pay the difference out of pocket if you like.

Scheduling your repair or replacement When it comes to planning for your repair, most projects can be done quickly — a full roof replacement can typically be completed in one day. However, wait times for your repair will vary depending on if there were recent storms in the area.

When storms hit an area, it is important to contact CoMo Premium Exteriors as soon as possible for an inspection since availability of both material and labor becomes hard to get very quickly, which can push the repair out for several months. However, in non-storm time most roofs can be scheduled for replacement or repair within two weeks of signing the contract. Regardless, once you recognize storm or other damage to your roof it is best to call quickly to get an inspection and get resolution.

When scheduling your Missouri roof repair or replacement you also want to keep in mind the season. Generally roofing can be done year-round but there are times when the temperature gets too cold and stays too cold for roofing work to be completed. Such extremely cold periods are typically short in Missouri; however, it can vary year to year. The best seasons for scheduling your roof repair work are during summer, fall or spring.

For roof repair or replacement in mid-Missouri, contact CoMo Premium Exteriors today.

WORKING WITH SLOPES WHAT THE HOME PROS KNOW

By Jacob Porter

Find more at rostlandscaping.com

It can be intimidating when thinking of ways to landscape your sloped property. Designing and building on a hillside can be very challenging. Despite the challenge, some of the most interesting projects I have worked on were built on slopes. Having grade changes to your landscape adds depth and creates opportunities for a unique design. Your property’s biggest downfall can become its greatest asset. By properly using walls, stone, or plant materials, you can tame your slope in a way that is both functional and attractive.

Retaining walls are a great way to help manage your property’s slope. They can be used to create more usable yard space, or to level off an area where you want to install a patio and create an outdoor room. Retaining walls are the obvious answer for most people when tackling a yard’s slope, but that might not fit everyone’s ideal. The good news is that there are other alternatives. For one, manmade concrete block retaining walls have come a long way in recent years. There are many colors and styles to choose, from rustic to modern.

There are also numerous natural stone products available that come in equal thicknesses making them easy to stack. If you don’t like the idea of one larger retaining wall, you may be able to create two or more smaller retaining walls giving the area a terraced look. Terraced walls create perfect pockets for landscape beds and plant materials. By mixing in plant materials you will help soften the look of the retaining walls.

JACOB PORTER ROST LANDSCAPING

Jacob comes from the small town of California, Missouri. With his plant science degree from MU and six years with Rost, he enjoys creating exciting outdoor spaces for his clients. Watching these creations come to life is only one highlight of being a designer for Rost. When he is not designing, he loves spending time with his wife and kids, tournament bass fishing, and doing a little bit of woodworking.

Another option to consider is the use of large natural stone boulders. Boulders can be used in the same way a small retaining wall would be. You can use them to create a flat spot where you want a patio installed, for example. There are also natural stone slabs that are quarried at 6-inch thicknesses that work great when used as a staircase. Stone is a great option when you want to keep your landscape looking natural, and a stone staircase adds a safe way to get from point A to point B. If you are not looking to create a flat spot but rather just prevent erosion, you can install a mix of boulders and plant

materials on a hillside to help stabilize the soil. It is best to plant things with deep roots in these areas and research which plants are best suited for the location.

When taking on your outdoor projects it is always best to consult a professional. This is especially true when building something structural like a retaining wall. It is important that proper construction methods are used to ensure the longetvity of the installation.

Hiring a qualified designer from a reputable landscape company is a great way to start getting ideas on how best to manage your sloped property.

THERE IS ROOM TO EXPLORE

By Michele Batye Find more

“ Room to Explore” to me is an investment in our customers and sales team. It takes technology and displaying flooring to a whole new level. The evolution of this system took over a decade for our flooring co-op to analyze and test.

One of the things we found in our research is that purchasing flooring can be overwhelming to our customers, so much to the extent some just choose to live with their ugly underperforming floors. Can you believe we used to boast that we had over 13,000 stocked items to choose from? My name is Michele Batye, owner of Flooring America. I’ve been in the flooring business for more than three decades and I’m confident this new flooring experience is going to revolutionize how customers shop for floors.

What “Room to Explore” does is simplify your floor buying journey. Your life is hectic, busy, and full of decisions, so we want to make choosing a floor easier. We know that you want your home to reflect your lifestyle, be functional, and aesthetically pleasing. When you walk into our new flooring showroom the first thing you will notice is open space, no longer an overwhelming number of manufacturers’ displays. Our samples will be arranged by color and texture, helping you move quickly to the look that is right for you. Don’t worry: our flooring experts will be right there to guide you to the product type that will work best for your home.

Hey, we like to talk about flooring because it’s our passion, but we know it’s a lot of facts and figures when you don’t buy

flooring every day. Our state-of-the-art Customer Experience Center allows you to scan each sample to see product and warranty information that is easy to understand and compare. Pricing and financing options — even room scenes — are all there at the touch of the screen. You can even upload photos of your own rooms either at our showroom or on your own device anywhere, anytime to see how the products look in your space before you make that big decision. Our improved website gives you information before and after the sales, so our showroom is always at your fingertips. We all agree less is more these days, but we want you to be reassured when downsizing our selection we had value in mind. We looked at all our product selection and compared the look, quality, durability, warranty, and price to create a collection from our most trusted manufactures. But again, don’t worry: our flooring experts and designers will be here to offer their experience throughout the entire process.

MICHELE BATYE Flooring America

Michele Batye is a female entrepreneur and Certified Missouri Women’s Business Owner of Flooring America, a locally owned full service flooring center offering a diverse range of flooring options for both retail and commercial markets.

We’ll provide free in-home consultation, measuring, and estimating services and once you have made your flooring choice our professional installation crew will make sure your product is installed to your satisfaction. We’re so confident you will love it we even added our Adore Your Floor Guarantee. Anytime during your warranty period and after the flooring is installed you wish to change your “Room to Explore” floor to a fresh style or color, you have that option.

So, what are you waiting for? Come explore what Flooring America has to offer on the Business Loop.

Instilling Hope

BY LORI GALASKE

In 1953, the Missouri chapter of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs recognized a need in the state. Missouri had homes for abused and neglected boys, but it did not have any residential facilities for girls in the same situation.

Fundraising began and six years later, Missouri Girls Town opened its doors. e home, located in Mountain Grove, Missouri, initially housed up to six residents.

Fast forward twenty-two years, and you’ll nd Girls Town at its current location in Kingdom City thanks to a land donation from Bill and Peggy McClain of Wellsville, Missouri. With the additional twenty-three acres, Missouri Girls Town expanded and now has four residential cottages that can house up to fty youths, along with administrative buildings, a rec center, a dining hall, and a school.

INDIVIDUALS SERVED

e girls who grace the beautiful grounds of Missouri Girls Town range in age from eight to twenty-one with an average age of

fourteen. By the time a young lady walks through its doors, she has typically lived in nine di erent placements — each one failing. e exception is found when a child is released from the hospital. In that situation, moving into Girls Town means the girl has progressed toward healing.

ere is no way to paint a beautiful picture of the life these girls have had, and Girls Town isn’t a pie-in-the-sky, everything-is-coming-up-roses kind of place. It is not a place where girls pretend. e sta , therapists, and direct caregivers meet the residents in their reality — a reality of abuse, neglect, and trauma. Deanna Barger, director of development at Missouri Girls Town, says that the girls who enter the program “have su ered severe emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. Some of them have dealt with substance abuse issues. ey’ve been through a lot.”

Girls enter the residential care program in several ways: by court order, private placement, or by referral from the Department of Social Services, Depart-

ment of Mental Health, Division of Youth Services, or other state agencies. Some come to Girls Town when treatment in a psychiatric hospital is complete, but the youth still need care and are not ready to be placed back in foster care or with a family member.

During a resident’s time in the program, which can be anywhere from six months to one year, she will have weekly one-onone sessions with her therapist and several weekly group sessions. She will stay in one of the cottages on campus along with other girls and a direct caregiver. An adult is in the house around the clock, every day of the year.

e girls attend school on campus through a partnership with the North Callaway School District. ey have chores and organized recreation time. ey also have their meals together. e goal is to surround the girls with a safe and supportive community to instill hope in them — hope for a better future.

Missouri Girls Town

FOUNDED

1959

MISSION STATEMENT

Supporting youth and families by providing therapeutic services and education to empower them to reach their full potential.

BOARD OFFICERS

Karen Blickenstaff, chairman

John Allen, first vice chairman

Danielle Easter, second vice chairman

Joe Scallorns, treasurer

Janet Guthrie, secretary

BOARD MEMBERS

Linda Brace

Denise Chapel

Carl M. Edwards, Sr.

Dottie Getz

Annie Hiatt

Beverly Katz

Tamara Miller

Shane Stryker

Katie Shannon

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Amy Boone, GFWC of MO president

Bonnie Tillman, GFWC of MO chairman

DIRECTORS

Jenny Preiss, executive director

Melissa Blumer, associate executive director

MISSOURI GIRLS TOWN

PO Box 59, Kingdom City, MO

573-642-5345

MissouriGirlsTown.org

IN THE COMMUNITY

According to the Start Foster Care organization, Missouri ranks in the top ten for the highest number of children in foster care. Many of the girls coming into foster care have experienced trauma or the cycle of abuse. Girls Town exists to break that cycle in Missouri.

By giving the girls a safe place, an education, and a rm footing on the road to healing from their trauma, Girls Town gives them hope.

Barger says, “We are giving youth in Central Missouri a second chance at a brighter future. We speak to the generational impact [of abuse]. We contribute to Central Missouri by giving these youth life skills, so they can be productive members of the Central Missouri economy. ey are our future workers. ey’re our future voters.”

A win means being discharged to a lower level of care or receiving their high school diploma.

“ at’s such a building block for the rest of their lives,” Barger adds, referring to a high school diploma. “It attests to the work that we’re doing with these kids. ese girls walk into adulthood

Opposite page: Girls at McClain-Williams House with totes of supplies donated by a Columbia Rotary Club.

Below: Danielle DuPree-Crawford from the Beverly Shelton Girls Town Club of Independence, MO during the annual Fall Festival at the Kingdom City Campus. Supporters visit the campus and interact with the youth being served.

with hope that their future doesn’t have to look like their past.”

THE CHALLENGES

With such a goal before them — to change the trajectory of lives in their care — challenges abound. e rst of Girls Town’s two highest priorities is sta . While that seems to be the cry across all sectors of business and society, Girls Town has experienced that shortage for about ve years. e result is that while Girls Town can house fty residents, it only has the sta to care for thirty-four. Barger explains, “It’s a pretty competitive job market.”

e cost of care for one resident is $315 per day. at calculates out to a little less than $115,000 per year for one child. Missouri provides 51 percent of the funding, leaving the organization to raise nearly half the income it needs to o er the quality of care it provides. Fundraising e orts are yearround and include soliciting individuals, corporations, and foundations. Missouri Girls Town relies on grants as well as income from annual fundraisers including “Happy Hour for Hope” held annually in September, a fall festival on the second Saturday of October, and a patron’s breakfast in the spring. While many of the donors move into retirement and a less secure income Missouri Girls Town has hope that new donors will join the organization to support the work to break the cycle of abuse.

DINING Beyond COLUMBIA

Discovering good eats outside the city limits.

BY AMANDA LONG

Columbia is well-known for its diverse list of high-quality dining establishments — so much so that at times it can be di cult to choose.

But let’s pretend for a moment that you’ve got an itch to get out and dare to try something new — embarking on a culinary journey beyond the city limits.

e weekend is here, and the weather is just right for a quick outof-town adventure to one of the charming, small towns that sprinkle the mid-Missouri landscape, many of which are home to some of the nest out-of-the-way eateries.

ere is a running theme in these destination restaurants — not only do they oftentimes put their hometown on the map, but also employ a staunch commitment to outstanding food and superior service. Be adventurous. Within a one-hundredmile radius and less than two-hour drive lies your next favorite meal.

COLUMBIA

FULTON

ST. JAMES

FAYETTE

MACON

Beks

hen Garry and Rebekah Vaught decided to purchase one of the historic buildings in downtown Fulton’s Brick District in 2003, their original intention was not to open a restaurant, but instead a co ee and wine bar.

Nearly twenty years later, Beks is a full-service restaurant well-loved by locals and visitors alike as Fulton’s go-to for an elevated yet casual dining experience.

“Beks has evolved over the years to become what it is today. While it isn’t exactly what we were planning then, we wouldn’t have it any other way,” says Vaught.

Exposed brick walls, crown moldings, tin ceilings, and 120-year-old original wood oors lend to the casual yet inviting ambiance of this unassuming eatery. e tall bar is lined with wooden chairs, often occupied by regulars who oat in and out throughout the day.

“I do believe the building lends to the success of the business,” Vaught says, “just because it’s so neat to have a structure that has been around for more than a hundred years in the historic downtown area that gives a feeling of our history.”

e regular menus feature core favorites including the Parmesan artichoke dip served with toasted pita, sandwiches like the chipotle chicken sandwich and Beks burger, as well as entrees including seared salmon topped with miso butter.

For lunch and dinner, rotating, seasonal specialties are created daily by Chef Danny,

each avor-forward entree highlighting locally sourced ingredients and seldom (if ever) repeated. Diners will nd dishes studded with seafood, wild game, and locally raised Show Me Farms beef complimented by inventive sides and sauces.

“Danny started as an intern. He is a selftrained chef who displayed a creative ability early on that we really leaned into. He draws inspiration from what is in season and what we can get locally and creates these one-of-a-kind dishes that customers keep coming back for,” says Vaught.

For example, the barramundi with green pepper slaw, corn relish, spicy avocado Verde, and tortilla strips made its debut alongside an Asian surf and turf — garlic soy ank steak and tempura shrimp served on a bed of ginger rice topped with avocado, cucumber and kewpie mayo.

Desserts are made in-house from scratch and range from cheesecake to Crème brûlée to the touted carrot cake – a secret family recipe.

Beks o ers a diverse and carefully curated wine menu featuring a selection of white, red and sparkling wines by the glass and by the bottle.

e restaurant has become a cornerstone for the local community and the Brick District, partnering with businesses and area organizations for special events and serving as home base for the annual Morels and Microbrews festival held the rst Saturday in May.

DISTANCE: ~25 miles | TIME: ~30 minutes

511 Court Street, Fulton

COLUMBIA FULTON

Emmet's Kitchen & Tap

111 N. Main St., Fayette

Located on the town square just across from the picturesque Howard County Courthouse (which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places) and housed in a late-1800s storefront that was once a soda fountain, Emmet’s Kitchen & Tap is the “Cheers of Fayette” according to manager Brandy Asbury.

“It’s not unusual for us to already know what our customers are drinking before they sit down. We remember the orders, the faces, the families — the personal touch is really a big thing for us. We want you to come in and feel like this is your spot,” shares Asbury.

Employed at Emmet’s since 2004, Asbury and long-time chef Matt Buckman are in the process of becoming the co-owners of the restaurant which has been a xture in Fayette since 2003.

Founder Rob Schluckebier, who died in 2020, named Emmet’s in honor of his grandfather, of whom black and white photos hang in the bar and dining area.

Schluckebier created the menu, inspired by his training in New Orleans, that ranges from po’boys and gumbo to pastas and shrimp, many of which boast a Cajun air.

Asbury says the Bayou Shrimp is a crowd favorite featuring hand-breaded shrimp tossed in a light our and Emmett’s “ e Spice” secret blend, ash fried and served with the house-made honey jalapeno dipping sauce, which she adds, “can be put on nearly everything.”

“And everyone loves the Big Easy Pasta — it’s creamy and spicy and, of course, there’s the gumbo,” which she says is her go-to comfort food.

Chef Matt Buckman started as a dishwasher at age 19 and was eventually trained by Schluckebier to become the chef. Every other weekend Emmet’s o ers a special “Matthew’s Table” menu featuring a unique dish created by Chef Matt.

“It allows Matt to be a little creative and play with some di erent avors,” Asbury says. “And it gives people who eat here often something di erent to try.”

“When he puts together dishes it is the coolest thing I’ve ever seen — his artistic creative process is amazing to watch. I don’t think the ingredients will go together and then I take a bite and I’m like oh wow. He really is a genius.”

DISTANCE: ~35 miles | TIME: ~40 minutes

“We remember the orders, the faces, the families — the personal touch is really a big thing for us. We want you to come in and feel like this is your spot.”

— BRANDY ASBURY, manager

COLUMBIA

FAYETTE

The Pear Tree Kitchen & Bar

Michael Abadessa says e Pear Tree Kitchen & Bar draws customers daily from near and far and in all directions from its location in Macon.

“Our customers make the journey from Quincy, the outskirts of Kansas City, Je erson City, Columbia, Iowa — for special occasions or when they are passing through. Many of them are third-generation fans of the restaurant.”

With a long history of great food and top-notch service, today’s version of e Pear Tree is a happy marriage of two well-loved establishments. e original Pear Tree opened by Albert Abadessa in 1986 which put Bevier, Missouri on the map, and its counterpart, AJ’s Eat and Drink, opened in 2011 in Macon with Albert’s son, Michael.

“When my father came from New York, he had visions of a supper club, so that is what he created at our Bevier location, including tableside cart service of his made-from-scratch high-quality dishes and desserts, but in a comfortable environment.”

Currently, e Pear Tree Kitchen & Tap menu o ers many of the beloved favorites from the former restaurant, which came to a tragic end in 2012 due to a re, including the renowned batter-dipped lobster and hand-breaded onion rings. e locally manufactured dressings, gourmet garlic croutons, and secret recipe Magic Dust seasoning are available for purchase.

“We strive to only use the best ingredients. Our Black Angus beef comes from Creekstone Farms in Kansas and is aged our way, longer than most — eighty-plus days. e lobster is sourced from Nova Scotia, South Africa, and Australia — nearly 5,000 pounds per year,” Abadessa adds.

A surprising nd on the dessert menu alongside the cheesecake and gooey butter cake is the “famous” wedding cake — a large slice of three-layer white cake served with homemade ice cream.

“I was challenged by a friend to put wedding cake on the menu, so I did, and it sold out in an hour. I made two the next day and they sold out, and it became a thing,” laughs Abadessa. “We

DISTANCE: ~60 miles | TIME: ~60 minutes

go through approximately twenty- ve cakes per week.”

Guests are attentively taken care of by a choreographed core team of long-term employees in what Al Abadessa called “swarm service.” Server Angela Bailey has been employed by the Abadessa family for twenty-plus years, sous chef Ron Russian for nineteen years, and Chef Brenda Nanneman for almost thirty years.

Bar favorites are also available on the menu including the ground prime beef smash burgers, batter-dipped pork tenderloin, and Cajun chicken sandwiches.

e crab rangoon is a crowd favorite served with a duo of dipping sauces.

Sybill's Restaurant and Gift Shop

1100 N. Jefferson St., St. James Sybills.com 573-265-4244

Namesake of the restaurant, Sybill Light is a third-generation restaurateur who swore she would never be in the business but inevitably followed in the footsteps of her grandparents, Loretta and Zeno Sche er, and her parents, Tom and Janet Sche er.

“Somehow it just gets in your blood,” says Light.

Loretta and Zeno founded Zeno’s in 1959, a popular steakhouse and motel in Rolla. e restaurant thrived for twenty years, when they passed the restaurant to Tom and Janet in 1979, the year Sybill was born.

“Dad was the chef and ran the back of the house, and Mom ran the front of the house. We lived right behind Zeno’s in a little house, so I was literally born and raised in the restaurant,” she laughs.

After twenty- ve successful years, Tom and Janet failed in their retirement e ort, purchasing a 100-year-old farmhouse in St. James in 2003 with plans to convert it to an antique and gift store. With encouragement from customers and the community, they were soon joined by their daughter in the business and subsequently built on and opened a restaurant in 2006.

Inspiration for the menu at Sybill’s came partially from Zeno’s classic menu of handcut steaks and fresh seafood, with the addition of some exciting new ideas.

“When the kitchen was rst up and running, Dad would put dishes together

and I would write down what he was doing and that’s where many of the recipes came from,” says Light.

Sybill’s has a daily lunch and dinner menu featuring a delicious selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts unlike anything else that can be found in St. James. Rotating seasonal specials are available, allowing the crew to show their creative side.

“When we rst came up with the maple Dijon scallops, we didn’t know how well it would go over in the middle of a pretty small town. We weren’t sure anyone would go for scallops, but it is one of the items that everyone must have,” laughs Light.

She says the surf and turf pasta — seafood ravioli with beef tenderloin tips topped with blue cheese crumbles, bacon, and green onions is “to die for” as well as Zeno’s Pride — a twenty-ounce prime beef with steak butter and au jus which can be

DISTANCE: ~92 miles | TIME: ~95 minutes

topped with stu ed shrimp or lobster tail.

Light advises visitors to save room, as the dessert menu is studded with a variety of scratch-made cakes, pies, and cobblers.

“Aunt Kara’s carrot cake is actually made by my Aunt Kara who has been our baker for years,” says Light. “ e homemade blackberry cobbler is made by Cindy Goodin, who has been with us since we opened 18 years ago. We often hear customers comment that it is the best they’ve ever had.”

Light says Sybill’s not only serves great food but works hard to o er a high level of customer service as well.

“It is a dying art wherever you go — we really focus on making people feel special. We are a destination and our customers come to celebrate the best moments of their lives. We want to match that energy. ere are lots of places that do great food but combined with great service and consistency — that is what sets us apart.”

ST. JAMES

Cookin' With Hoss

BY HOSS KOETTING

It’s just around the corner. Yes, the summer soiree season is coming right up, and you can’t do anything about it, so you might as well be prepared. ere will be numerous invitations to get-togethers coming in, many of which you will be expected to bring a dish to contribute to the communal table.

What to bring? You don’t want to be the person who brings the tub of pre-packaged grocery store deli salad, or even worse, a bag of chips. Potato salad or coleslaw are dependable options, but if there’s mayo in the recipe, there’s the issue of refrigeration and maintaining the correct temperature to avoid being the one responsible for everyone’s gastrointestinal discomfort — so that’s probably not the best choice.

What are good options? What is visually appealing, tasty, not mundane — and not potentially hazardous?

In the many years that we had Hoss’s Market, we came up with a substantial repertoire of recipes for side dishes to satisfy these criteria — with many hits and a few misses — to avoid being too redundant for catering jobs. One of the more popular items that we served is great as an appetizer with chips or as a side dish. e heat level can be adjusted to your taste by increasing or decreasing the amount of jalapeno peppers, and it is safe to put on a table and not be too concerned about the serving temperature (although it should be kept refrigerated until serving time).

Jim “Hoss” Koetting is a retired restaurateur/chef who enjoys gardening, good food, good bourbon, and good friends.

TEXAS CAVIAR

INGREDIENTS

• Four 14 oz cans black-eyed peas, drained and rinsed

• Four 14 oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed

( e beans and black-eyed peas need to be rinsed thoroughly or the result will have a cloudy appearance)

• 3 cups fresh or frozen corn

• 3 cups seeded and chopped fresh tomatoes

• 1 cup chopped red pepper

• 1-1/2 cup chopped red onion

• 1 cup chopped cilantro

• 1 cup seeded and diced fresh jalapenos

Dressing

• 2/3 cup olive oil

• 3 tsp honey

• 3 tsp raspberry red wine vinegar

• 3 tsp lime juice

• 1/8 cup minced fresh garlic

• 2-1/2 tsp Hoss’s Southwest seasoning

INGREDIENTS

• Mix the veggies together.

• Whisk together the dressing ingredients.

• Toss it all together.

Show-Me Antiques

Spend a day or a weekend hunting for nostalgic treasures.

BY KELSEY WINKELJOHN

Antique shopping, or “antiquing,” undoubtedly holds a special place in American culture. From beloved TV shows like American Pickers, Pawn Stars, and Storage Wars to the numerous billboards dotting Midwest highways advertising antique shops and malls, the allure is unmistakable.

But with so many shops to visit, it’s hard to decide which are worth visiting and which are worth ditching. Fear not; we’ve curated a list of must-see antique stores around Missouri to help guide you. Whether you want to make a day trip or a weekend vacation, we’ve got you covered.

Kansas Ci

River Market

Antiques

115 W. Fifth St. Kansas City, MO 64105

Situated just north of the artsy West Bottoms and Downtown KC area, River Market Antiques has garnered widespread love and support from locals during its nearly thirty years of operation.

One of its most cherished attributes is its eclecticism. With more than 175

knowledgeable dealers housed within its three-story building, River Market Antiques o ers an array of items, ranging from vintage clothing and accessories to glassware, home decor, and art. is establishment feels like a treasure trove, enhanced by the historical ambiance of the building dating back to the 1910s.

River Market Antiques is a short walk from the local eateries and Farmer’s Market at the River Market in Kansas City.

WHAT’S NEARBY:

• Le Fou Frog

• Garozzo’s Downtown

• The Westside Local

• National WWI Museum and Memorial

• The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

• Union Station/Science City

• Country Club Plaza

The Brass Armadillo

1450 Golfview Drive Grain Valley, MO 64029

e Brass Armadillo is located along I-70, easily attracting curious interstate travelers and local antique enthusiasts.

The Brass Armadillo

Swee ea’s Vintage & More

Freakin’ Antiquin’

Nostalgia Vintage apparel & marketplace River

With a 42,000 square foot showroom, e Brass Armadillo comfortably hosts more than 500 dealers specializing in various wares, including furniture, primitives, antique watches/ clocks, and sports memorabilia. It even has personal shoppers who can help you nd the item you’re looking for, whether it’s a speci c brand, collectible, or product.

Visitors especially enjoy the a ordability of the antiques — a vital focus of this antique store, which aims to o er high-quality items at reasonable prices.

WHAT’S NEARBY:

• Bean Counter Cafe

• BRockEnzO Pizza [Food Truck]

• Pearl Tavern

• Harry S Truman National Historic Site

• Powell Gardens

• Cave Spring Park

Sedalia

Nostalgia Vintage Apparel & Marketplace

515 S. Ohio Ave. Sedalia, MO 65301

Voted “Best of Rural Missouri” in 2023, Nostalgia Vintage Apparel o ers four oors of vintage clothing, home decor, antiques, and Mid-century treasures. Many agree the store’s ambiance and charm transport you to the past, making its name more tting.

Visitors often rave about the store’s superb organization. For example, men’s and women’s clothing is carefully curated and divided by decade, allowing for an easier and more enjoyable shopping experience.

Nostalgia is worth visiting with its variety, a ordability, and cute co ee shop on the third oor.

WHAT’S NEARBY:

• Tacos El Arca

• Ozark Coffee Company and Roastery

• RAKS Escape Room

• Daum Museum of Contemporary Art

• Centennial Park Spring eld

Freakin’ Antiquin’

2259 E. Bennett St. Springfield, MO 65804

Freakin’ Antiquin’ is an antiques and vintage market started by a group of antique-loving friends in 2017. With 85+ booths and 70+ dealers, this store carries a variety of primitives, furniture, and home decor.

Since 2018, the market has stood out for its painting and crafting classes, providing a unique opportunity for deeper community connections. Additionally, Freakin’ Antiquin’ frequently hosts fun antiquing events either on its own or in collaboration with other shops, such as the Holiday Junkin’ Journey, Galentine Ladies Night Out, and Vintage Shop Hop.

Classes and upcoming events are viewable via its website.

WHAT’S NEARBY:

• Split Social Kitchen

• Casper’s Diner

• Pinches Tacos Mexican Food

• Fantastic Caverns

• Springfield Art Museum

• Wild Animal Safari

Sweetpea’s Vintage & More

5221 N. 17th St. Ozark, MO 65721

Located just eight minutes from downtown Ozark, Missouri, Sweetpea’s Vintage & More specializes in all home decor needs. It o ers various products,

including re nished antique furniture, lighting xtures, candles, and garden/ outdoor items.

At Sweetpea’s, customers can take advantage of the design and painting services, which include assistance in revitalizing old furniture and choosing decor that complements their home.

What’s Nearby:

• Lambert’s Cafe

• Vineyard Market

• Mundos Latin Kitchen and Bar

• Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

• Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden

• Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain

St. Louis

The Hill Antique Market

4923 Daggett Avenue St. Louis, MO 63110

“We’re passionate about building on old traditions while setting new standards.” Since opening in 2019, e Hill Antique Market has quickly expanded to accommodate 75+ vendors who strive always to keep pricing fair. e store carries a variety of items, including antique furniture, textiles, clothing, rare collectibles, retro home decor, and modern handcrafted goods.

e Hill Antique Market also makes for a perfect weekend trip, as it o ers an onsite cafe, nearby sleeping accommodations, and an event space capable of hosting weddings, birthday parties, conferences, and galas. e shop also hosts events like Tour of Italy Wine Dinners, Galentine’s Day Sip and Shop, and National Pie Day.

WHAT’S NEARBY:

• Anthonino’s Taverna

• Oliva Cafe

• Adriana’s on the Hill

• St. Louis Zoo

• Missouri Botanical Garden

• City Museum

Moberly Five & Drive

A NIGHT AT THE DRIVE-IN

Moberly’s B&B Theaters provides a nostalgic way to enjoy films on the big screen.

BY EMMI WEINER

“There’s

something magical about films being projected on a big screen and the night sky above you. It is very, very summertime and wholesome in a way.”

— STEPH FOLEY

enell Stein can remember being loaded into the family car to Moberly to see a movie at B&B eaters Drive-In. He recalls being in his pajamas, getting snacks, and enjoying some quality family time.

“My rst memory is my mother, I think was around three years old, dragging me to the women's room at the drive-in,” Stein said.

Stein is a lifetime Moberly resident and is the manager of B&B eaters. He grew up at the drive-in, spending countless hours there as a teen both working and hanging out with friends.

“I remember coming here with my parents watching all kinds of movies, like What's New Pussycat, all those '60s movies,” he went on. “When I was in high school, I would come in with my girlfriend. ey would run these marathons where they get ve or six movies that run almost 'til dawn. But we don't do that anymore.”

WHY THE DRIVE-IN

ere is something uniquely American that is evoked by idyllic memories at the drive-in. Steph Foley, an avid movie fan and former longtime employee of Ragtag Cinema, also holds fond youthful memories of going to the drive-in.

“ ere’s something magical about lms being projected on a big screen and the night sky above you. It is very, very summertime and wholesome in a way,” Foley said while talking about summer nights as a teen at the drive-in. “We'd walk around; it was like an adventure but you're still in this safe little spot.”

Steph and her friends still take the trip to Moberly to enjoy a sense of freedom that you only feel as a teen. ey see the drive-in as an opportunity to indulge in blockbuster lms they might not be interested in otherwise. ey grab lawn chairs, snacks, and Frisbees to make an evening out of it.

“We get our lawn chairs and then we'll set up a little table and put a boombox on it so we can all sit out and listen,” Foley explained. “We always just go to big adventure blockbusters. It's di erent from the movie theater where you're being quiet and you're a captive audience. It is more of a social hang. You can yell when something exciting happens on the screen, and you're outside and it's really loud and it's just part of the fun.”

Programming for the drive-in varies from family blockbusters to kitschy drive-in classics like Creature from the Black Lagoon. e programming aims to create an opportunity to continue making memories at the drive-in.

“We screen retro titles and classic lms that maybe wouldn't have the same appeal if you were going

to watch it in an auditorium,” says Paul Farnsworth, executive director of communications and content for B&B eaters. “ ere's sort of a sentimental approach that people take to the drive-in”

More than just nostalgia, drive-ins o er a more personalized experience. With sound being transmitted on FM radio, moviegoers have more control over their own sensory experience. During COVID, the drive-in saw a revival of sorts since it allowed people to enjoy lms without taking health risks.

“ ere was a moment there, albeit a brief one, where the drive-ins were the only options that a lot of folks had to go to the movies because they didn't have to sit next to somebody else,” Farnsworth said while talking about preserving the nostalgic locations.

HISTORY

e original drive-in was built in the early 1950s by the Bills family. e Bills opened Bills eaters in 1924 in Salisbury, Missouri. In the 1980s the Bills and Bagby families came together to create B&B eaters.

“We had the drive-in and there were also two theaters downtown in Moberly. I actually worked there when I was in high school back in the '97s and '80s,” Stein recalled.

As the multiplex cinema became the norm, B&B eaters in Moberly closed its single-screen cinemas to open theaters with multiple screens.

“ ey decided they were going to build a multiplex in '97,” Stein explained. “ ey had this land out here by the old drive-in and they were just gonna build a multiplex, but then Bagby said, 'You know what, if we put a projector in this and you put this building on its side we can run the drive-in as well,' so they decided to make a theater that has ve indoor screens and a drive-in. I don't think there's more than a few other theaters with indoor theaters and a drive-in.”

If drive-ins aren’t your thing, B&B eater also offers a state-of-the-art multiplex with six screens. e multi-screen cinema was updated to feature all the creature comforts associated with movie theaters these days like updated concession stands and reclining seats.

“We have a bar so you can enjoy a nice alcoholic beverage while watching a movie but unfortunately you can't bring drinks outside to the drive-in,” Stein said.

With a great selection of rst-run movies and special programming, there is a lm o ering sure to entice any movie lover.

“Here's sort of the traditional, predictable experience that one has at a movie theater where you go inside you buy your popcorn, you sit down, you watch the movie,” Farnsworth explained. “ e drivein represents, for a lot of folks, a nostalgic quality.”

Get Out of TOWN

Columbia’s central location makes getting away for a weekend in Missouri’s north, south, east, and west easy. Here’s something to help you get packing.

BY MICHELLE TERHUNE

TIP FROM A LOCAL

If you’re camping in Thousand Hills, take your binoculars or telescope to get a closer look at the stars.

NORTH

Kirksville

It takes only an hour and a half to drive up U.S. Highway 63 to Kirksville. e drive took far longer in 1933 when Don Faurot’s Northeast Missouri State Teacher’s College (now Truman State University) football team beat his alma mater, Mizzou, 26-6. e Tigers hired him away in 1935 and the rest is history.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

If you want to spend some time on the water and on the beach, hiking, camping, shing, or viewing petroglyphs carved by Native Americans fteen hundred years ago, visit ousand Hills State Park and its 573-acre Forest Lake. It’s a favorite for residents and visitors alike.

e Kiwanis Farmer’s Market lls the west side of the Courthouse Square downtown every Saturday morning from May through October. After picking up some fresh produce, owers, baked goods, and other local items, wander around the Square and visit the shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Osteopathic medicine was born here, and A.T. Still University’s Museum of Osteopathic Medicine is lled with artifacts. ose include one of only four fully intact human nervous systems in the world, dissected by students in 1926. You’ll need to schedule a Saturday visit.

WHERE TO STAY

As a university town, Kirksville has several hotels you can book. ere are a few homestays, or you can book a room at Brashear House Bed & Breakfast. If you’re visiting ousand Hills, reserve a cabin or a spot in the campgrounds where you can pitch a tent or hook up your camper or RV.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

e DuKum Inn o ers a rotation of twenty-four draft beers on tap. Across the street is e Wooden Nickel featuring barbecue, Italian dishes, and steaks. Sip Downtown o ers small plates, a large wine list, and handcrafted cocktails. TK Prime serves steaks, seafood, and a full-service bar. ere’s also Lakeside Grille at ousand Hills with deck seating. For hearty breakfasts, try Pancake City or Rosie’s Northtown Café.

TIP FROM A LOCAL

Locals know that some of the best treasures are found “off the beaten path.” Don’t be afraid to wander.

SOUTH Lebanon

You won’t take Route 66 from Columbia to get to Lebanon, but you will end up on e Mother Road. It takes under two hours to wend your way south of the Lake of the Ozarks and down Missouri Highway 5 to get there.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

e history of Route 66 is everywhere, even if the road itself is now I-44. Take a tour through the Route 66 Museum or see the murals in Boswell Park. e Munger Moss Motel, e Manor House Inn, and Wrinks Market are all original 66 stops. And if you want to relive its heyday, don’t miss the Route 66 Festival held every June.

About two thousand people converge for opening-day trout season at Bennett Spring State Park, where more than one hundred million gallons of fresh spring water gushes daily. ere’s a large park store, dining lodge, and hatchery you can visit without putting on your hip-waders.

ere are no fewer than eleven antique malls, shops, and stores to visit in Lebanon. Route 66 isn’t the only famous byway here. e town is part of Missouri’s “Antique Trail.”

WHERE TO STAY

Lebanon’s proximity to I-44 means there are several hotels. ere are also several resorts, including Riverwood, Big Bear, Sand Spring, and Larry’s Cedar Resort. Bennett Spring State Park o ers cabins and campgrounds. ere’s also Bennett Spring Homestead Hotel, Bennett Spring Inn, and a variety of homestay options. e historic Munger Moss Hotel and e Manor House Inn also still book guests.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

For local avor, try e Rail 1868 Restaurant and Tavern in a restored downtown building or Brickhouse Bar & Grill. Mel’s on Madison features barbecue. Dowd’s Cat sh House o ers up award-winning southern fried cat sh. Lunch Box Café has been serving all-day breakfast and dinner delights to locals and visitors for more than fty years. And you can grab a cup o’ joe at Jude’s Co ee Company.

TIP FROM A LOCAL

It's what you'd expect of a small town. So come ready to decompress, eat well, and take in the sights.

EAST Ste. Genevieve

Ste. Genevieve is the oldest permanent European settlement west of the Mississippi River. To get there, take interstate highways in about two hours, forty- ve minutes, or the scenic route via Missouri Highway 50 for a longer trip.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

e architecture is a can’t-miss. ere’s the Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park. Many of the homes and buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And three of the ve buildings in the country using poteaux-enterre construction are located here.

e French Heritage Festival is celebrated every June. See people dressed in period costumes, eat traditional foods, and tour historic homes amid live music and folk dancing. Travel during the holidays to what AAA Magazine has rated as the Midwest’s second-best Christmas celebration.

If you want outdoor experiences, check out the water features, wilderness, trails, and camping at Hawn State Park. Or visit Hickory Canyons Nature Area known for microclimates where glacial relics thrive as do more than a dozen species of fern.

WHERE TO STAY

ere are several homestays available, with some in historic homes, like Aunt Katie’s Corner or 1810 House. Book luxury accommodation in a tiny house on Baetje Farm or spend time watching rescued big cats while staying at Crown Ridge Towers Lodging. ere are also traditional hotels as well as several B&Bs, such the Southern Hotel built in the 1790s and operated continuously since 1805.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

Eat a forty-ounce steak (if you dare) at Old Brick House. Stop at e Terrace at French Village to sample Missouri and French wines and a selection of beers. Browse antiques while sitting at the historic soda fountain at Sara’s Ice Cream. Pat’s Pastries serves up old-fashioned baked goods. And Oberle Meats is famous for its traditional German sausage. Farm-to-fork food and delicious wines are on the menu at Grapevine Grill at Chaumette Vineyards and Winery. ere are several other wineries to visit, including Charleville Vineyard, Winery & Microbrewery.

TIP FROM A LOCAL

Seek out the unusual — whether it's a ghost tour, a sheep cheese tour, a hidden snug, historic sites, and one-of-a-kind stores.

WEST Weston

It takes less than two and a half hours to get to historic Weston from Columbia if you travel across I-70 and up I-29. Perched above a bend in the Missouri River, Weston produces its own beer, whiskey, wine, cigars, and roasted co ee.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

Visiting downtown feels like stepping back in time. Weston’s old brick buildings house a variety of shops, including Celtic Ranch, McCalley’s on Main, e Candy Jar, La Bella Cucina Italian Market, Weston Bend Candle Company, and Renditions Polish Pottery. Galleries like Back Roads Art and Northland Artist’s Gallery feature original artwork. And don’t forget to stop at e Farmer’s House Market.

Antique shoppers can stop at WD Pickers Antique Mall before heading downtown to hunt for treasures at 1837 Emporium, Cactus Creek, Else-Wares, and Weston Main Street Antiques. For a real picking experience, don’t miss Je ’s Architectural Salvage and Variety Shop. For outdoor adventure, visit Weston Bend State Park with miles of paved trails and scenic views of the Big Muddy. If you come in the winter, you can ski, snowboard, and tube down the slopes at Snow Creek.

WHERE TO STAY

Weston Brewing Company hosts guests at the historic St. George Hotel, e Inn at Weston Landing, and Mandrake Place. e Coal House Lodge is a cozy B&B in — you guessed it — an old coal house. Enjoy a hot tub and cool country views at Hippie Hills AirBnB. Or check in at one of several B&Bs, like Fire y Inn, Hatchery House, or Weston Steamboat Inn.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK

Holladay Distillery, home of McCormick Distilling Company, still produces whiskey using its 160-year-old recipe. Enjoy food and award-winning wines at e Vineyards at Pirtle Winery and Weston Wine Company. Weston Brewing Company’s O’Malley’s 1842 Irish Pub and American Bowman Restaurant are institutions. Green Dirt Farm Creamery serves charcuterie featuring its own cheeses. And start the morning at Weston Co ee Roastery.

H I T T H E

ROAD

Refuel and refresh with these weekend getaways.

BY LAUREN SABLE FREIMAN

The list of things to do in Columbia is long and continuously growing, but sometimes, there is an urge to hit the highway in search of a weekend adventure. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, pampering, exploration, physical activity, or a walk into the paranormal, Columbia’s central location means all of that, and more, can be found within a few short hours.

S E E K I N G

ADVENTURE

HOTEL FREDERICK, BOONVILLE, MO

About 30 miles east of Columbia, those looking for a touch of luxury blended with the historic touches of the early 1900’s will nd that Hotel Frederick in Boonville checks all the boxes. Situated in Boonville’s downtown historic district on the corner of High Street and Main Street, Hotel Frederick’s rich history and Romanesque Revival architecture have earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

“A lot of people are surprised that it is a historic hotel, furnished with regional antiques from the time period that it was built, however, we have modern amenities like at screen televisions in every room, really nice bathrooms in each room, and that extra luxurious touch,” says Holly Bozarth Simpson, who purchased Hotel Frederick in 2020 after managing it since 2013.

With its proximity to the Katy Trail and complimentary indoor bike storage on the hotel’s main level, Hotel Frederick certainly draws plenty of cyclists. Warm Springs Ranch, the breeding and training facility for Budweiser Clydesdales; the River, Rails & Trails Museum; Isle of Capri Casino; and the historic downtown district are nearby to provide hours of entertainment and discovery.

But Bozarth Simpson says that Hotel Frederick’s guests don’t even have to leave the property to ll their weekend with tasty food, great entertainment, and cozy activities. Communal areas around the hotel, and amenities like a game armoire and a library, provide many opportunities for guests to slow down and relax.

“If you’re staying for the weekend, you don’t have to leave the property if you don’t want to,” she says. “We have nice restaurants and a fun lounge with craft cocktails. ere are so many things to look at, from our art collection to historical maps that are on the walls.”

e Brick Room, located on the hotel’s lower level, is open on Friday and Saturday nights. With its cool, club-like feel reminiscent of a speakeasy, e Brick Room features drinks and a wide range of musical entertainment, from blues to rock and country to acoustic. “ e Fred,” the hotel’s restaurant and lounge, serves a continental breakfast that is included in every

stay. Its seasonal menu and craft cocktails are all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

“People come from all over for our restaurant and lounge, and e Brick Room is like none other around here,” Bozarth Simpson says. “It’s an elegant but casual atmosphere, and our employees give top notch service where you feel like you’re at a bed and breakfast. We have very friendly, attentive service.”

THE UNKNOWN

THE ELMS HOTEL AND SPA, EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, MO

e Elms Hotel and Spa, located two hours west of Columbia in Excelsior Springs, is the place to go for a weekend getaway lled with a lot of history, indulgent luxury, and a paranormal twist. While two res destroyed earlier versions of the hotel, e Elms brand itself has withstood the test of time, and today, it is a century old. Following a $20 million renovation in 2011, the luxury hotel as it stands today represents 100 years of history. Now part of the Hyatt brand, it has a warm, cozy, and elegant feel.

Within e Elms’ lush green acres, guests can easily ll their days with a variety of things to discover and experience. e hotel boasts stunning scenic trails lled with seasonal owers, an herb garden and a Zen garden. ere’s a beautiful pool surrounded by cabanas o ering both privacy and shade, while e Grotto, featuring a variety of Roman baths, tempts guests into the ultimate relaxation.

e dining options are also plentiful. ree Owls is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while e Tavern o ers snacks, drinks, and pub fare, along with live music, on Friday and Saturday nights. An on-site co ee shop, Cafe Soterian, transforms into a wine bar at night.

For all that it o ers, e Elms is known as an iconic destination. It’s also known for its nightly paranormal tours, available to both hotel guests and the public.

Front desk agent Parker Plunkett says that over the past seventeen years, tour guide Jay Fanning has guided an estimated 50,000 guests on a paranormal tour throughout the property. Leaving nightly at 9 p.m., the tour costs $25 per guest ages 9 and up.

“With it being an old historic building, there is a lot of activity,” Plunkett says. “Ghosts or paranormal, it’s been undecided, as everybody sees or experiences di erent things.”

Built in 1888, e Elms has hosted a cast of characters through its storied history, including gangsters Al Capone and Bugsy Moran, bank robber Pretty Boy Floyd and President Harry S. Truman. Today, Plunkett says the hotel has a list of haunted rooms, which guests often request when booking.

DISCOVERY

THE INN AT HERMANNOF, HERMANN, MO

Wine tasting, distillery tours, a farm tour, antique shopping, a visit to the spa. ose are just some of the options available for guests of e Inn at Hermannof. Located in Hermann, overlooking the Hermann historic district on the Missouri River, the inn provides an adult getaway guaranteed to refuel and reenergize its guests.

“With our hospitality and amenities, people don’t have to go very far,” says Georgie Busch, the inn’s director of hospitality. “You can plan a weekend and not have to drive anywhere and have a weekend to absorb some of the history of the town in some of the best overnight accommodations here in Hermann.”

e opportunities to customize a weekend getaway are plentiful, as e Inn at Hermannof o ers several di erent options for lodging. Within the main building, there are eight spacious, luxurious suites appointed with reproductions of Early American furniture and period pieces from the Hermann area, along with modern amenities including whirlpool tubs, oversized showers, replaces in the bedrooms and bathrooms, at screen televisions and high-speed internet.

“With our hospitality and amenities, people don’t have to go very far. You can plan a weekend and not have to drive anywhere and have a weekend to absorb some of the history of the town in some of the best overnight accommodations here in Hermann.”

— GEORGIE BUSCH

e Weinhaus Cottages include six hillside cottages, original wine houses that date back to the German settlers who rst settled in Hermann in the 1830s. Inside, twenty-one suites with various con gurations welcome guests for a romantic getaway with breathtaking views.

e Cottages at Schroeder Hill include three cottages, providing guests with complete privacy. Kids under the age of 12 are only permitted to stay in these private cottages, and Busch says that most guests are enjoying a romantic couple’s getaway. Guests in any of the inn’s accommodations are treated to a complimentary hot breakfast in e Fireplace Room each morning.

For those able to pull themselves away from the inn’s peaceful escape, Busch says the hos-

pitality team is committed to helping guests plan the day they want. Often, that might include a visit to one of Hermann’s many festivals, like the Shakespeare Festival, the Hermann Wine Trail Weekend, or Wurstfest.

WE ASKED OUR READERS...

What’s your favorite day trip from COMO?

If you’re ready to get away for a day trip or road trip from COMO, our readers offered up inspiration and road trip vibes via Facebook.

Ohhh so many ... A day trip to downtown Je erson City is a staple for my girls and me. We’ll always grab lunch at Yanis, Madisons, Pizza Underground, or the original Arris Pizza and a walk down to YoYums for frozen yogurt before taking a stroll around the Governor’s Garden, Capital, and riverwalk.

Nothing beats a camping weekend at Mark Twain Lake (camper, tent, and cabin camping available) with beautiful hikes and sunsets over the lake.

Or for a relaxing weekend away the Elms in Excelsior Springs will pamper you with a full day in the saunas, pools with all the spa services (and haunted rooms / ghost tours to raise the heart rate back up!).

— SARAH JANE SHORTHOSE

Elephant Rocks and Johnson’s ShutIns are always amazing in the warmer months. Ha Ha Tonka is also pretty, especially in the fall.

— ASHLEY LASITER

St. Genevieve wine country.

— DAVE-ROBIN BAKER-WALKER

e Elms in Excelsior Springs.

— ALISSA JONES GERKE

Washington, Missouri. Great Airbnb options but also cute inns. Several good walkable restaurants and tasting rooms.

— LAURA GERDING

De nitely Glasgow, Missouri. Rolling Pin, Muddy Mo Pizzeria, Beckett’s. en go to Charlie’s Grocery store for homemade ham salad and pimento cheese. You can’t go wrong with any of these.

— CINDY LOU’S GLASS STUDIO

I love heading back home to Washington, Missouri. Every year, there is something new to explore in the downtown area. ... Oak & Front, e Painted Home, Marquart’s Landing, Olivino, e Nest Cafe, and Not Just Cut & Dried are my favorite rotations for food/drink/ entertainment.

— ALLIE BAUTISTA

We also like Westover Farms Resort outside of Steelville, Missouri. Peaceful and trout shing!

— DEE DEE SHELTON

Kimmswick, Missouri! e cutest little village of old houses turned into shops with the best restaurant, Dough Depot!

— NICOLE BRANCH

Hotel Frederick in Boonville, Missouri.

— SHOW-ME DINOSAURS

Pinnacles, the Capitol and its grounds, oating on the Missouri, Cahokia mounds, and e Elms in Excelsior Springs.

— MIKE TRAPP

Love being on the Current River and staying/eating/ oating with e Landing-Current River. Van Buren is a beautiful drive through the Ozarks and has all the outdoor accommodations you’re looking for!

— LAUREN GODSY

Public House in St. James.

— PAT SCHOLL

I love hauling a kayak up to DC Rogers Lake in Fayette and grabbing a drink and food at Emmet’s Kitchen & Tap.

— BETH COWGILL

De nitely Arrow Rock, Missouri! More to do and see than just the Arrow Rock Lyceum eatre, but the theater alone is worth the trip!

— AMANDA JACOBS

We found a hidden gem in Hermann ... take the train from Je City into Hermann and must-visit is the Juniper Gin Library, the cutest gin bar I have ever visited! Plus, the shopping in Hermann is outstanding.

— TONYA HICKAM SCHLEETER

And be sure and hit up Arrow Rock Antiques and Mercantile! ey have the most amazing collection of gifts, decor, clothes, purses and jewelry!

— JENNY LORENZ-RUDKIN

I love hiking ree Creeks Conservation Area!

— HEATHER FEELER

My two favorites: Jacobs Cave and Finley Farms!

— BARBIE BANKS

Washington/Augusta, Missouri. e Washington Guest House is probably the best and cutest Airbnb I’ve ever stayed in. Almost hate to share about it because it’s such a gem and I don’t want it to be booked when I want it.

— DESTINEY CONCANNON

South Missouri. Can’t go wrong exploring south of 44!

— TYLER WILLY

Hermann Hill Inn and Vineyard. Hands down.

— SUZANNE CLAUS ROTHWELL

Lone Elk Park and World Bird Sanctuary in Valley Park, Missouri, near St. Louis.

— KAREN PAINTER MAGGINE

Rolling Pin in Glasgow.

— SUSAN WINN NICHOLS